A Melbourne man who acted like a “crazy monster” as he stomped repeatedly on the head of a Dublin backpacker has pleaded guilty to murder.

Michael Schumacher splashed his way to the fastest lap in today’s first practice session for the Australian Grand Prix as Minardi made their first appearance of the weekend at Albert Park.

Minardi will take part in qualifying on Saturday after Paul Stoddart won a court battle to run his 2004-specification cars.

Team boss Paul Stoddart is taking legal action after being told Minardi will not be allowed to compete in the Australian Grand Prix despite receiving unanimous agreement from rival teams.